Supreme Winner and Best Public Building

Toxteth TV, Liverpool

Architect Union North
Bricks Baggeridge, Hanson, Ibstock, Tarmac Wilnecote
Brickwork contractor Nobles Construction

If Joseph had been an architect, he would have designed this building. An inspired project that combines a fully equipped TV studio and accommodation within an alternative “campus”, it is home to creative and community businesses. Built on a shoestring budget of just £56/ft^2, Toxteth TV uses raw, low-cost and reclaimed materials to produce a dynamic exterior comprising brick, block and timber. The multicoloured striped brickwork reflects the variety of brick hues in the vicinity and is accentuated by alternate projecting courses to produce a dynamic building.

Such an interesting use of brick on such a tiny budget impressed the judges, as did the way the structure harmonises with its environment. The quality of brickwork is excellent and is combined with other basic materials with imagination and flair. Toxteth TV is also a fine example of how an innovative brick building can raise the tone of an entire neighbourhood. For these reasons, it is also awarded the ultimate accolade of BDA Building of the Year 2004.

Public building runners-up

Keyworth Centre, South Bank University, London

Architect BDP
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor Bansal Building

The Brindley, Runcorn, Cheshire

Architect John Miller & Partners
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor G&T Seddon

Haberdashers’ Hall, London EC1A

Architect Hopkins Architects
Bricks Charnwood Forest
Brickwork contractor Swift Brickwork

King Edward VI School, Birmingham

Architect Associated Architects
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor Weaver